If you were to ask my parents about me and shopping at Christmastime as a young child, they’d no doubt tell you that both my brother and I were already armed and ready to do battle with others in stores the day after Thanksgiving (albeit later in the day).
We’d have already poured over our options for new toys and games well before the first balloon ever made its way down to Herald Square and we knew enough to recognize the fact that it was usually cheaper to go shopping over in Jersey than it was to head downtown. We had lists prepared down to the last cent and were happy to see what Santa got us on Christmas morning after we’d finished our own shopping spree at the beginning of the season.
It’s a different story nowadays.
In recent years I think some would consider me lazy; I’ve become horrible at letting others know what I’d be interested in for the holidays. I can’t really explain why either. I don’t think that anyone would turn down a chance to put a list of things out there in hopes that some of them come in intentionally, though apparently I have.
Instead of being ready when folks start asking “What do you want for Christmas?” with a list of needed items, I’ve gotten used to riding out most of the season being optimistic about what may end up under the tree.
I’m realizing though that I can’t do that forever, especially since I’m sure that the yearly silence after being asked by Betsy’s family and my brother about what I want for Christmas will grow old eventually.
It is December 21, but I figured posting a wish list today is better than not posting one at all. I figured it may give some other folks some good ideas for last minute gifts for those of us that don’t necessarily voice their wants (or maybe you can make some suggestions for gifts in the comments section as well).
I’ll also warn you that there are Amazon Affiliate links to some of the items below. I just don’t want folks thinking that they’ve been tricked to click on links or anything like that.
OK, here we go…
Trust Agents by Chris Brogan and Julien Smith – If I’ve learned anything in the past year, it’s the idea that relationships are important. I’ve been able to glean nuggets from Chris’ and Julien’s minds via their appearances this year, including a chance to talk with them in person in New York during Affiliate Summit. I also know just how much fun it is to have a physical book available to flip through, underline and reference on occasion.
Beard trimmer – I used to not have to worry about shaving; I wish that was still the case. Regular electric razors cause me to break out in razor bumps, though I do know that a beard trimmer would not do so. This suggestion is purely for selfish reasons.
Body Glove™ case for the Palm Pre – I promise that I’ll write about my latest handheld gadget later this week, but before I do so I’ll hint about one point of contention for me. I’m always scared that I’m going to drop it and damage it. I’m also very nervous about putting it in my pocket since that’s how I damaged my last Palm PDA five years ago. I end up carrying it in my hand and that makes me even more nervous about dropping it and losing it, so a case for the phone (even one that protects it from my bouts with clumsiness) would be most appreciated.
New York by Edward Rutherfurd – I’m a huge fan of historical fiction. I’m also a fan of anything that delves into the workings of my hometown up north. This book has received a great deal of positive press since it’s been released and even though I still have several books on the shelves to finish reading, the idea of reading something that takes more than four centuries of history and makes it interesting is too tempting to pass up.
Nike+ Sportsband – The best race I ever ran was the last one I ever took part in as a resident of the city of Savannah. It was a 5K in Bluffton, SC where I finished first in my age group and ran a sub-28. Despite how I came to start running, it’s become one of my best stress relievers and a great time to think clearly. While I enjoy my new stress releases, you can’t necessarily cut the grass in the winter. I get motivated when I get to track numbers – the two pairs of pants I bought that are two sizes too small could help too – and joining the world’s largest running club could do wonders in terms of rejoining the throngs of folks in Charleston come late March trying to get over some bridge…
Now the odds of seeing any of these things under the tree or in the mail come Friday morning is slim. The fun part of the exercise for me will be in seeing just what is received, if both lists line up and if I really did need it after all. It doesn’t hurt to dream, especially since the holiday season shouldn’t be about presents, now should it?
Mahalo.
